Why Nnamdi Kanu's Health Report Sparks Fresh Debate - NMA Panel Says He's Fit for Trial Despite Ailment

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.... Court orders continuation of trial as NMA medical team rules Kanu's condition "not life-threateningÔÇØ - sparks outrage among supporters who insist DSS is hiding truth.

Fresh controversy has trailed the ongoing trial of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, after a medical panel set up by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) declared that his ailment is not life-threatening and that he is fit to stand trial.

The panel, constituted on the orders of Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, was tasked to determine Kanu's true state of health following conflicting reports from medical experts engaged by both the prosecution and defence teams.

In its report submitted to the court on October 13, and partly read in open court during Thursday's proceedings, the NMA medical team stated that while Kanu has certain health challenges, they are not serious enough to prevent him from facing trial.

Following the submission, Justice Omotosho ruled that the court was satisfied with the report and subsequently directed that the trial proceed. The judge then fixed six consecutive days, beginning from October 23, for Kanu to open and close his defence.

Meanwhile, Kanu's lead counsel, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), raised concerns about the safety of communications between his legal team and the IPOB leader while in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS). He alleged that their discussions may be tapped or recorded by security operatives.

Responding, Justice Omotosho granted permission for a private consultation between Kanu and his legal team within the courtroom, outside the DSS facility. The meeting is scheduled to hold on October 22 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon, ahead of the continuation of the trial the following day.

The NMA panel's verdict has, however, drawn sharp reactions from sections of the public, particularly from IPOB sympathizers and human rights advocates, who argue that the ruling downplays the psychological and physical toll of prolonged detention on the separatist leader.

As the court gears up for the next hearing, tension continues to mount over what many describe as a politically charged trial that could test Nigeria's commitment to justice and human rights.